Barolo wine, gianduja chocolate and heady white truffles – Piedmont is home to the finer things in life. This heart-stealing landscape envelops you in rolling hills, interlaced with vineyards and crowned with historical towns. Yet you’re always within reach of the Alpine foothills and a spot of skiing. Whether you’re a foodie or fond of hiking, Piedmont is utter bliss.
FOOD & WINE
The Slow Food Movement was born in Piedmont and as you crisscross its villages and vineyards, you’ll quickly sense how proud the locals are of their produce. And rightly so. Eat chocolate and gnarled grissini in Cuneo. Sip vermouth in its home town, Turin. Go to Alba for truffles and Barolo for wine. A trip to Piedmont is a ticket to pure indulgence.
NATURE
Piedmont is cradled by national parks and it’s worth dedicating time to day trips out from your boutique hotel. Gran Paradiso lays claim to golden eagles, wild boar and the protected ibex in its mountains, valleys and glaciers. Or discover the Italian lake many tourists are yet to cotton on to – Orta. A carefully kept secret of the Milanese, it’s almost otherworldly in its beauty.
FESTIVALS
Whatever the season, there's always a festival happening in Piedmont. Some, such as the truffle fairs, draw hundreds to the region each year. Others are lesser-known – such as Alba’s donkey race (palio) in October, Cuneo’s chestnut fair and the very specific Minestrone celebration in Mombaruzzo, Asti. For a journey into Piedmont’s past, join in the medieval pageants that pop up across the region.
When in Piedmont try bagna cauda, a warm dip made from olive oil, garlic and anchovies that’s said to be a favourite of Pope Francis.